Nina Simone, the High Priestess of Soul, remains an indomitable icon whose music transcends genres and generations. With a voice that could convey the deepest of sorrows, the fiercest of joys, and the most profound calls for justice, Simone’s artistry is a fusion of jazz, blues, classical, and gospel, all delivered with unparalleled emotional depth. Her songs are not just melodies—they are powerful statements, anthems of resistance, and reflections of the human condition.
In this article, we journey through the top 10 most popular Nina Simone songs of all time, celebrating the tracks that have left an indelible mark on music history. From her heart-wrenching ballads to her fiery protest songs, each selection showcases Simone’s unique ability to capture the complexities of life and love. Whether you’re a long-time fan or new to her work, these songs will not only introduce you to the genius of Nina Simone but also invite you to feel every note, every lyric, and every emotion that she poured into her timeless music. Get ready to be captivated by the soulful magic of Nina Simone as we count down her most iconic tracks.
1. “Feeling Good” (1965)
“Feeling Good” is perhaps one of Nina Simone’s most celebrated anthems, capturing a sense of liberation and rebirth that’s both timeless and powerful. Released on her album “I Put a Spell on You,” the song was originally written for the musical “The Roar of the Greasepaint – The Smell of the Crowd.” However, it was Simone’s rendition that transformed it into a soulful expression of emancipation. The swelling orchestration, combined with her impeccable vocal delivery, makes each line in “Feeling Good” resonate with a sense of triumph and joy. The song has since become synonymous with empowerment and has been covered and sampled by countless artists, yet none match the raw passion of Simone’s original performance.
2. “I Put a Spell on You” (1965)
Nina Simone’s version of “I Put a Spell on You” is a haunting, mesmerizing take on Screamin’ Jay Hawkins’ original. First appearing on her 1965 album of the same name, this track showcases Simone’s ability to blend genres, infusing the bluesy ballad with elements of jazz and her signature emotional intensity. Her voice carries a mix of desperation and determination, making the listener feel the full weight of the longing and obsession the lyrics convey. The dramatic orchestration, with its swelling strings and powerful crescendos, further amplifies the song’s bewitching atmosphere. Simone’s “I Put a Spell on You” remains a definitive version that continues to enchant listeners decades after its release.
3. “Sinnerman” (1965)
“Sinnerman” is one of Nina Simone’s most dynamic and enduring tracks, clocking in at over 10 minutes of relentless, pulsating rhythm. Released as part of her album “Pastel Blues,” this traditional African American spiritual song is transformed into a powerful, almost hypnotic experience in Simone’s hands. Her intense piano playing, coupled with the fervent call-and-response vocals, creates a sense of urgency that builds throughout the track. The song’s lyrics, which tell the story of a sinner seeking redemption, are delivered with such conviction that they feel like a personal plea. “Sinnerman” has since become a staple in Simone’s catalog, often used in films and television to evoke a sense of tension and raw emotion.
4. “My Baby Just Cares for Me” (1958)
“My Baby Just Cares for Me” is a charming, upbeat track that displays Nina Simone’s versatility and her talent for jazz piano. Originally recorded in 1958 for her debut album “Little Girl Blue,” this song reached new heights of popularity in the 1980s when it was featured in a Chanel No. 5 perfume commercial. The song’s lighthearted lyrics and catchy melody, combined with Simone’s playful piano riffs, make it an irresistible tune that showcases her ability to bring joy through music. Despite its simple theme of love and devotion, Simone’s performance elevates the song to a classic, ensuring its place as one of her most beloved tracks.
5. “I Loves You, Porgy” (1959)
“I Loves You, Porgy” is a tender, heartbreaking ballad that highlights Nina Simone’s ability to convey deep emotion through her voice. This song, originally from George Gershwin’s opera “Porgy and Bess,” was recorded by Simone in 1959 and became her first Top 20 hit in the United States. The track’s delicate piano accompaniment and Simone’s softly pleading vocals create an intimate atmosphere, making the listener feel every ounce of the character’s vulnerability and longing. “I Loves You, Porgy” remains one of Simone’s signature songs, a testament to her extraordinary talent for interpreting and transforming music into something deeply personal and universally affecting.
6. “Don’t Let Me Be Misunderstood” (1964)
“Don’t Let Me Be Misunderstood” is a song that perfectly encapsulates the complexity of Nina Simone’s artistry. Released in 1964 on her album “Broadway-Blues-Ballads,” the song was originally written for her by Bennie Benjamin, Gloria Caldwell, and Sol Marcus. Simone’s version is a poignant plea for understanding, delivered with a blend of vulnerability and strength that only she could manage. The song’s lyrics express the frustration of being misjudged, and Simone’s soulful delivery makes it clear that this is a deeply personal sentiment. While many artists have covered this song, Simone’s version remains definitive, capturing the raw emotion and nuanced interpretation that made her a legendary performer.
7. “Ain’t Got No, I Got Life” (1968)
“Ain’t Got No, I Got Life” is an anthem of resilience and empowerment, taken from the musical “Hair.” Nina Simone’s 1968 version, released on her album “Nuff Said!” became an instant classic, particularly in Europe, where it reached the top of the charts. The song merges two separate tracks from the musical into a single, cohesive piece that contrasts the despair of having nothing with the triumphant realization of what truly matters in life. Simone’s energetic performance, complete with her distinctive vocal phrasing and rhythmic piano playing, turns the song into a celebration of inner strength and self-worth. It remains a powerful reminder of Simone’s ability to inspire through music.
8. “To Be Young, Gifted and Black” (1969)
“To Be Young, Gifted and Black” is one of Nina Simone’s most significant contributions to the civil rights movement, serving as an anthem for Black empowerment. Released in 1969, the song was inspired by the life and work of playwright Lorraine Hansberry, who was a close friend of Simone. The song’s empowering lyrics, which celebrate the strength and potential of Black youth, are delivered with a mix of pride and determination. The uplifting melody, combined with Simone’s passionate vocals, makes it a stirring call to action and a source of inspiration. “To Be Young, Gifted and Black” has since become a timeless symbol of pride and resilience, cementing Simone’s role as a voice for social justice.
9. “Mississippi Goddam” (1964)
“Mississippi Goddam” is Nina Simone’s fiery protest song, written in response to the 1963 assassination of Medgar Evers and the 16th Street Baptist Church bombing in Birmingham, Alabama. Released in 1964 on her album “Nina Simone in Concert,” the song is a searing indictment of racial injustice in America. Simone’s performance is both urgent and unapologetic, with lyrics that convey her frustration and anger at the slow pace of social change. The song’s upbeat tempo contrasts sharply with its serious subject matter, creating a powerful effect that forces the listener to confront the harsh realities of racism. “Mississippi Goddam” remains one of Simone’s most important and influential works, a bold statement that solidified her role as an artist-activist.
10. “Wild Is the Wind” (1966)
“Wild Is the Wind” is a song that showcases Nina Simone’s unparalleled ability to convey deep, complex emotions through her music. Originally written by Dimitri Tiomkin and Ned Washington for the 1957 film of the same name, Simone recorded her version in 1966 for the album “Wild Is the Wind.” Her interpretation is a masterclass in subtlety and intensity, with her haunting vocals and delicate piano accompaniment creating an atmosphere of longing and passion. The song has been covered by numerous artists, but Simone’s rendition remains the definitive version, capturing the wild, untamed nature of love in a way that only she could. “Wild Is the Wind” is a testament to Simone’s genius as a vocalist and musician, making it a standout in her extensive catalog.
Edward Tomlin is a frequent contributor to Singers Room. Since 2005, Singersroom has been the voice of R&B around the world. Connect with us via social media below.
